হ্যাঁ
hễ/hæ̃/
The English word "yes" is translated into Bengali as হ্যাঁ (hễ). Wiktionary also lists জি (ji).
Meaning: word used to indicate agreement or acceptance (particle)
Ways to say it
| Bengali | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| হ্যাঁ | hễ | /hæ̃/ | |
| জি | ji | formal |
In Bengali, these words are used as particles to indicate agreement or acceptance.
Which one should you use?
While হ্যাঁ is a standard way to say yes, you can use জি in more formal situations. Other informal variations include Hā and Āchā. Additionally, Jī hān can be used as a polite way to express agreement.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
জি is a formal form used to show respect. You should use জি instead of হ্যাঁ when speaking to elders, superiors or in formal settings. Conversely, Hā and Āchā are informal ways to say yes.
How do you pronounce it?
The romanization is hễ and the IPA is /hæ̃/.
Did you know?
- The Bengali 'yes', written as হ্যাঁ, is likely a distant relative of the sacred syllable ॐ (Om).
- In many Bengali conversations, a rhythmic head nod or a slight tilt can act as a non-verbal version of হ্যাঁ.
- The word জি is not just a 'yes' but can function as a standalone polite address, much like 'sir' or 'madam' in English.
Examples in context
- হ্যাঁ, এটা আমি করেছি।Yes, I did it.This sentence is useful for practicing the use of হ্যাঁ to confirm an action.Tatoeba #11465130 by robingaspi, translation #11454304 by Adelpa
- হ্যাঁ, এটা সেভাবেই কাজ করে।Yes, that's how it works.This sentence shows how হ্যাঁ is used to confirm a process.Tatoeba #11653806 by robingaspi, translation #11201743 by Lebensfreude
- হ্যাঁ, বব আমায় সাহায্য করেছিল।Yes, Bob helped me.This sentence demonstrates using হ্যাঁ to confirm a past event.Tatoeba #11653839 by robingaspi, translation #35577 by shanghainese
- 3 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Rahul and Ishani are deciding whether to go for a walk.
- রাহুল Rahulহ্যাঁ, আমরা এখন যেতে পারি।Hya, amra ekhon jete pari.Yes, we can go now.
- ইশানি Ishaniতুমি কি তৈরি?Tumi ki toiri?Are you ready?
- রাহুল Rahulহ্যাঁ, আমি প্রস্তুত।Hya, ami prostut.Yes, I am ready.
- ইশানি Ishaniচলো তাহলে!Cholo tahole!Let's go then!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “yes” translations and entries হ্যাঁ, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries হ্যাঁ, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
